Ok, so I originally did the Hunter's Ed Course only as a free safety course for the FL CCW, but now, I'm starting to get into it, and as my other post said, I went back today to do the rifle portion.

 

The plan is to go with a co-worker of mine next month for the early muzzle loader season in PA. This will be the first time I've ever hunted. And as such, I have no gear outside of guns.

 

What do you guys recommend for a first timer? I'm thinking the best idea would be to go spend a little bit of money on good waterproof boots, and as for camo, just hit up whatever is left for cheap at walmart.

 

Any other tips?

 

Thanks

Keep your feet warm and dry. Spend the money on a good pair of boots.

Let me just say ( Gortex ) if you are going to be in wet weather.

I've never been hunting on the east coast, but if its anything like being in the field-- along with a nice pair of boots is a nice pair of socks. Remember to keep your feet dry, so, bring more then one pair. If its cold enough, I'd recommend maybe poly-pros, and probably some gloves.

What type of hunting?

 

PA requires 250 square inches of blaze orange so keep that in mind. Camo is most important to Turkey, so don't really worry about it for other game.

 

Make sure you read the PA hunting digest here: http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/pgc/cwp/view ... 0&q=176550

 

Ever cleaned an big animal? You need to make sure you have at least one sharp gutting knife. Best to let someone who knows how do it with you the first time.

 

On super cold days I wear silk glove liners under a big gore tex glove. If you do intend to wear gloves, practice with them on.

 

Warm feet are very important. Better to go a little bigger on the boot and wear another sock.

 

A deer harness is nice. When I was a kid we used binder twine. We always got it home but it broke unless doubled or trippled and the deer looked like a prize fighter when we were done. Lightweight harnesses are $10. Get one. heh.

 

Have fun, be patient.

Your friend has never hunted?

Did they change the regs in PA, so you can use other than a flintlock?

Thanks Guys, No my friend is pretty experienced, but I just wanted to harness the power of the internet and get the more information the better :-)

 

Were going for deer. He said he'd show me how to clean it if I get lucky enough to get one.

 

I'm pretty sure PA has the extra flintlock season by itself. He's using a percussion gun, so I should be ok. I'm going to read that digest again. I'm at work right now though.

I agree, footwear is critical. Spend extra time choosing boots 'cause you will enjoy several seasons out of them if you take care of them.